• For i consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (19) For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. (20) For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; (21) because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. (22) For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. (23) Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body.

The letter to the Romans was written by the apostle Paul and our verses today concern present sufferings, which are the result of past events, and future deliverance. Paul refers to the suffering of present time meaning the entire present age. The entire history of creation since the fall is marked by suffering; catastrophes, wars, natural disasters, conflicts, crime – just the struggles of our lives. But salvation triggers release from the corruption since Adam sinned.
When Adam sinned the whole human race sinned in him. God’s judgment on Adam included a judgment on creation – the botanical world; the animal world. Salvation in faith in Christ Jesus is the promise that there will be a restored world with no violence or death which were not part of original creation. In sin creation was made subject to vanity – meaning futility, aimlessness, the inability to achieve desired results – it’s not something creation did but was done to it. And Paul’s mention of our groaning means to lament – to moan and be aware of living in this world with all the pain and sin – we are groaning for glory.
Future glory includes full renewal of creation to its original perfection and purpose and includes full redemption of our bodies. Future glory is guaranteed by the present possession of the indwelling Spirit which is the promise that God will not abandon us. The biblical perspective is perseverance – to endure – as this future glory with God is absolutely certain for the faithful: God promised and He cannot lie.